OpenMeetings Upgrades Web Conferencing App

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OpenMeetings 1.5, an open source, browser-based software that lets users quickly set up a conference on the web, now is available.

The free multi-language software, offered as a free Google application, allows users to share screens, record meetings, collaborate on documents via a whiteboard, and use a microphone and webcam. OpenMeetings 1.5 is available as both a hosted service or can be installed on the server, with no limits on the usage or number of users.

The software includes a calendar, which automatically calculates the time based on attendees' time zones. A button present in the dashboard and on all chat messages guides users to the correct conference room.

"We are happy to announce Version 1.5 (RC1) of OpenMeetings. Its major new feature is time zone handling in the calendar," said developer Sebastian Wagner.

In addition, the operating system-independent software offers a new OpenMeetings application integrated into Facebook. Using this app, users can conduct free conference sessions with open source web conferencing.

"The app will add some conference rooms that you can use for free and log-in with your Facebook account directly," according to app developer Webbase-Design.

OpenMeetings 1.5 also integrates with the Moodle module, a course management system that educators can use to create online learning sites.

Although the OpenMeetings website includes several videos with tips and features about earlier releases, its website does not yet provide similar information on version 1.5.